Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Arcata to consider medical marijuana guidelines

After months of discussion, the council may finally decide on amending the medical marijuana guidelines to the city's recently adopted land use code.

The council will also consider hiring a fifth over-hire position for the Arcata Police Department. The over-hire, a position used to cover for officers during extended leaves or training, would be used to address the anticipated retirement of a senior officer in April, and enable the department to hire a police officer trainee in time for the Basic Law Enforcement Academy beginning in January. Missing the academy would delay filing the position by about six months.

Another issue the council will tackle is creating a Transactions and Use Tax Oversight Committee. The committee would ensure that the funds generated from the recently approved sales tax will go strictly toward street maintenance and public safety.

In other matters, the council will continue to hold a public hearing on the Trillium Creek development. The proposed project includes a request to develop a 3-acre clustered development within a 7.4-acre subdivision that would be a part of an overall 24.4-acre site. The remaining 17 acres would be a protected watershed and forest preserve through a conservation easement.

The council will also hold hearings to consider adopting a resolution that would authorize a $225,000 loan to local manufacturer Wing Inflatables to create jobs; and an amendment to the city's housing rehabilitation guidelines to include a pilot program offering housing rehabilitation loans to senior citizens who own manufactured homes in mobile home parks.